Sri Lankan Coconut & Millet Buns

A weight-loss-friendly twist on the traditional coconut buns, this Sri Lankan-inspired recipe replaces refined flour with millet flour and sugar with natural sweeteners like kithul jaggery. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and metabolism-boosting spices, these buns are perfect for Sri Lankans looking to shed weight without compromising on taste.

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Weight loss based ingredients

  • Millet Flour (high-fiber, gluten-free, and low-glycemic index)
  • Kithul Jaggery (natural sweetener, low-glycemic index)
  • Desiccated Coconut (healthy fats, fiber-rich)
  • Coconut Oil (healthy fats, metabolism-boosting)
  • Eggs (protein-rich, supports muscle maintenance)
  • Cinnamon (metabolism-boosting, anti-inflammatory)
  • Cardamom (digestive health, antioxidant-rich)

Cooking Methods (Instructions) Focused for Weight Loss

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine millet flour, kithul jaggery, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and a pinch of salt. Add cold coconut oil and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with a splash of almond milk and a drop of vanilla extract. Create a well in the dry ingredients, pour in the wet mixture, and fold gently. Add desiccated coconut and mix until just combined. Drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.

Avoid over-mixing to preserve the texture and nutrient content. Use minimal oil or opt for an air-fryer version for a lighter alternative.

Weight Loss Tips & Advice

Replace refined flour with millet flour to increase fiber intake, which helps in feeling full longer and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Kithul jaggery is a healthier alternative to sugar, as it has a lower glycemic index and provides essential minerals. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can boost metabolism and aid in fat burning. Incorporate spices like cinnamon and cardamom to enhance flavor while promoting digestion and reducing inflammation.

For portion control, limit yourself to one or two buns per serving. Pair with a cup of plain tea or black coffee to avoid excess calorie intake.

Conclusion

This recipe is ideal for Sri Lankans aiming for weight loss as it uses locally available, nutrient-dense ingredients like millet flour, kithul jaggery, and coconut. The high fiber content aids digestion, while the healthy fats and spices support metabolism and overall health. By making small changes to traditional recipes, you can enjoy familiar flavors while staying on track with your weight loss goals.

Remember to balance this snack with regular physical activity and a well-rounded diet for sustainable results.